Matteson Brush Removal Services

Our Brush Removal Process

Contact Matteson’s Department of Public Works for Brush Disposal & Municipal Chipping Programs

Matteson residents benefit from a comprehensive municipal brush disposal program designed to protect the Lake Michigan watershed and comply with Illinois environmental regulations. Curbside yard waste collection typically runs April through November, requiring brush to be bundled in 4-foot lengths, under 50 pounds, and tied with biodegradable twine—plastic is strictly prohibited. Yard waste drop-off sites are available for residents, with posted hours and permit or sticker requirements; commercial contractors may be subject to additional fees for bulk loads. Municipal chipping services are coordinated through the Department of Public Works, often in partnership with the Park District, with finished mulch available to residents during peak spring and fall seasons. All brush must be separated from leaves and free of contaminants, in accordance with the Illinois Environmental Protection Act (415 ILCS 5). Street and storm drain disposal is strictly prohibited to prevent MS4 violations and protect water quality.

Matteson Department of Public Works
4900 Village Commons, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 748-1411
Official Website: Matteson Department of Public Works

Matteson Fire Department Coordination for Open Burning Permits & Safety Requirements

Open burning of brush in Matteson is subject to strict regulation, with many Chicago suburbs—including those in Cook County—prohibiting or severely limiting open burning due to air quality and public safety concerns. Where permitted, residents must obtain a daily permit from the Fire Department, adhere to seasonal burning windows, and follow safety protocols such as maintaining a minimum 50-150 foot setback from structures, constant supervision, and having a water source or fire extinguisher on site. Burning of leaves, construction debris, or treated wood is prohibited. Fire weather restrictions are coordinated with the National Weather Service Chicago, and burning is suspended during red flag warnings, droughts, or high wind events. Defensible space creation is encouraged for properties near forest preserves, with vegetation managed in 30-100 foot zones to reduce fire risk and maintain emergency vehicle access.

Matteson Fire Department
3445 211th Street, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 748-5129
Official Website: Matteson Fire Department

Understanding Brush Types, Invasive Species & Specialized Disposal in Matteson’s Heavy Clay Soils

Brush removal in Matteson must address the region’s dominant invasive species, including Common Buckthorn (Rhamnus cathartica), Glossy Buckthorn (Frangula alnus), Bush Honeysuckles (Lonicera spp.), Multiflora Rose (Rosa multiflora), and Autumn Olive (Elaeagnus umbellata). These species form dense thickets, outcompete native plants, and require specialized disposal: seeds and berries should be bagged and sent to landfill, never composted or chipped for mulch. Equipment must be sanitized between sites to prevent disease spread. Hazardous vegetation such as poison ivy, wild parsnip, and tick habitats are common; protective clothing and prompt tick checks are essential. Restoration with native species—such as serviceberry, viburnum, and prairie grasses—supports ecological recovery and aligns with local conservation goals, especially in heavy clay soils that require careful timing to avoid compaction and rutting.

Matteson Environmental Commission Requirements for Brush Removal Near Wetlands & Protected Areas

Brush removal near Matteson’s wetlands, streams, and protected areas is regulated by the Environmental Commission, requiring permits for work within 10-25 foot buffer zones. Coordination with state and federal agencies ensures compliance with erosion control standards, especially on slopes with heavy clay soils prone to severe erosion when vegetation is removed. Wildlife protection is paramount: mandatory surveys for nesting birds (April-August), bat roosts, and active dens are required before removal. Selective removal techniques preserve valuable habitat features, and brush piles may be strategically retained for wildlife shelter. Immediate site stabilization—using silt fencing, erosion control blankets, and mulching—is required to prevent sediment runoff into the Lake Michigan watershed.

Matteson Commissions (Environmental Commission)
4900 Village Commons, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 283-4900
Official Website: Matteson Commissions

Professional Safety Standards, Equipment Requirements & Utility Coordination (JULIE 811) for Brush Removal

Professional brush removal in Matteson requires adherence to rigorous safety and certification standards. Complex removals should be performed by ISA Certified Arborists, with all operators trained in invasive species identification and ANSI Z133.1 safety protocols for equipment such as chippers and brush hogs. Personal protective equipment (PPE) is mandatory, including chainsaw chaps, cut-resistant gloves, eye and hearing protection, and steel-toed boots. Before any excavation or stump removal, JULIE 811 must be notified at least 48-72 hours in advance to locate underground utilities, and minimum approach distances to overhead lines must be observed. Contractors must carry a minimum $1 million liability insurance, environmental impairment coverage if herbicides are used, and workers’ compensation for all employees.

JULIE (Joint Utility Locating Information for Excavators)
Call 811 or visit JULIE 811 - Call Before You Dig

Seasonal Timing, Wildlife Protection & Weather Coordination for Matteson’s Climate Zone 5a-6a

Optimal brush removal timing in Matteson’s Zone 5a-6a climate is during winter (December-March) when the ground is frozen, minimizing soil compaction and rutting in heavy clay soils. Early spring (March-April) is also suitable before wildlife breeding season begins, while late fall (October-November) is ideal after breeding concludes. Work should be avoided during May-August to protect nesting birds and during periods of saturated soils to prevent equipment damage. Weather coordination is essential: operations should be suspended during high winds (over 20-25 mph), heavy precipitation, or red flag fire warnings, as indicated by the National Weather Service Chicago. Wildlife surveys are required before removal during sensitive periods.

Post-Removal Site Restoration & Stormwater Management in Compliance with Matteson’s MS4 Program

Following brush removal, Matteson’s MS4 (Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System) program requires immediate erosion control to protect the Lake Michigan watershed. Exposed clay soils must be stabilized with mulch, erosion control blankets, or silt fencing, and native vegetation should be reestablished using Illinois-adapted species. Construction phase protection includes proper equipment staging, daily cleanup, and containment of debris to prevent migration into storm drains. Long-term management involves monitoring for invasive regrowth—especially buckthorn and honeysuckle, which resprout vigorously—and maintaining restored areas with watering, mulch replenishment, and, if necessary, licensed herbicide application in accordance with Illinois Department of Agriculture - Pesticide Regulations. Compliance with Illinois EPA Water Quality & Watershed Management and the Clean Water Act is mandatory.

Storm Debris Management & Emergency Response Coordination with Matteson

After severe weather events, Matteson coordinates emergency brush collection and debris management to ensure public safety and maintain emergency access. Residents are notified of collection schedules via municipal communications, and are required to separate organic brush from construction debris and household waste. Priority is given to clearing emergency routes and major thoroughfares, with extended yard waste collection hours or temporary drop-off sites established as needed. Coordination with FEMA may be necessary for federal disaster declarations, requiring documentation and proper debris placement. Safety protocols include traffic control, barricades, and coordination with utility companies for power line clearance. The Department of Public Works, Police, and Fire Departments work together to ensure efficient and safe storm response.

Matteson Police Department
20500 S. Cicero Avenue, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 748-4085
Official Website: Matteson Police Department

What Neighborhoods Do We Serve Throughout Matteson, IL?

Matteson encompasses a diverse range of neighborhoods, each with unique brush management needs:

• Old Matteson: Mature tree canopy, dense buckthorn understory, narrow streets, and overhead utilities require careful equipment access and invasive management.
• Gleneagle Trail: Newer development with less invasive pressure, HOA landscaping standards, and efficient curbside collection routes.
• Lincoln Crossings: Proximity to wetlands and forest preserve buffer zones necessitates permit coordination and wildlife protection.
• Butterfield Creek: Floodplain and heavy clay soils require erosion control and seasonal timing to avoid saturated conditions.
• Ridgeland Manor: Established neighborhood with mixed native and invasive vegetation, alley access, and higher property value expectations for restoration.
• Matteson Farms: Semi-rural area with larger lots, fire risk near prairie grass, and need for defensible space.
• Brookmere: Planned community with deed restrictions, conservation easements, and strict disposal logistics. Each area requires tailored approaches to vegetation management, environmental compliance, and disposal logistics.

Matteson Municipal Ordinances for Brush Removal Equipment Operation & Commercial Service Standards

Matteson enforces municipal ordinances governing brush removal equipment operation and commercial service standards to ensure public safety and community quality of life. Equipment operation is typically restricted to 7 AM-9 PM on weekdays and 8 AM-9 PM on Saturdays, with Sunday restrictions varying—always verify current local codes. Commercial contractors must be licensed, carry comprehensive insurance, and comply with all safety and traffic control requirements, especially when working near public roads or utilities. Public safety is prioritized through traffic management, emergency access maintenance, and adherence to noise ordinances. Enforcement is managed by Code Enforcement, with penalties for violations such as illegal dumping, improper disposal, or unlicensed operation.

Matteson Community Development Department
4900 Village Commons, Matteson, IL 60443
Phone: (708) 481-8313
Official Website: Matteson Community Development Department